Elevate Talks: JP Bonino
JP Bonino is an Uruguayan eclectic photographer, skater and surfer who lives in Buenos Aires. His work fluctuates between intense emotions, lysergic nonsense and uncomfortable calmness. He has worked with It’s Nice That, Max Siedentopf, Converse, Paper Dropbox, Levi’s and many more. As if this were not enough, he is about to release a book about a trip he did to Myanmar.
Could you introduce yourself, please?
Yes, my name is Juan Pablo. I was born in Uruguay. I like skating in winter and surfing in summer. I am really handsome.
How did you decide to become a photographer? Was it tough?
I started taking photographs because of my dad. When he was young he was a great amateur photographer. He taught me how to read light and capture certain details or situations that perhaps the human eye cannot perceive because it is way too busy focusing on grown up stuff.
What was the first job in which you got paid for working as photographer?
I believe it was for an editorial in a French mag. I was inspired by a movie. I won two nickles and used them to rent some clothes.
Do you have an office of some kind?
I have a den in Colegiales with my friends from Pantera (a group of filmmakers in Buenos Aires). That is my workplace. Sort of.
On a scale from 1 to 10, how important do you think social media is?
Today? 4.
How do you choose whether to take pictures in an analogue or digital way?
Deadlines, basically.
How do you feel experimenting with new technologies and photography?
I am happy. I love the challenge of merging photography with these new cool lil’ gadgets.
If you had to mention your top 3 projects/works, what would they be?
This question is too tough because every project has different people involved and (most importantly) tons of love.
Do you have any source of inspiration that you turn to when you are experiencing photographer’s block?
I usually read, watch movies or look for new painters.
If you could chose a person to photograph from anywhere in the world, who would it be?
Anonymous (with no mask on).
What are you working on right now?
In a few days I’ll be releasing my first book! It is about a trip I did to Myanmar. Although I’ve already collaborated with other photographers in books, mags and stuff but this is just mine’s. I did it with a lot of effort and dedication. I really hope you like it.
How do you see yourself in 12 months?
I’d like to be taking pictures on the moon and, if that’s too pretentious, in places that I have not yet traveled to. Preferably places with a lot of nature in order to publish hundreds of beautiful books.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
I’d like to start my own cult. Nothing shady or weird, just good vibes. We would all be dressed in white and we’d promote permaculture.
